Compiled by Christian W. Peck
Niagara County Public Information Officer
Top Niagara County officials released the following statements Sunday in reaction to the death of longtime Niagara County Commissioner of Economic Development Samuel M. Ferraro.
Wm. Keith McNall, chairman, Niagara County Legislature: "It is with much sorrow that I announce the death of Sam Ferraro, Niagara County commissioner of economic development. Sam Ferraro was a man of character and great integrity, and his hard work and contribution to economic development in Niagara County will be remembered for many years to come.
"His commitment to maintaining and fostering a climate welcoming to new businesses, and to business retention, has long been recognized. His years of service to bettering our Niagara County will be part of the legacy he leaves."
Kathryn L. Lance, chairwoman, Niagara County Legislature Economic Development Committee: "I'm saddened to learn of Sam Ferraro's passing. As our economic development commissioner, Sam was a visionary whose ideas led to job creation in Niagara County. He was also a determined professional who understood that results came from the hard work of implementation, not just enthusiasm for ideas.
"I should also note that, as chairwoman of our Legislature's Economic Development Committee, I worked closely with Sam, and over time came to think of him as a dear friend. I will miss him and his counsel, and I wish his family comfort at this time of grief."
Richard E. Updegrove, Niagara County manager: "Sam Ferraro was one of the hardest-working members of this county's team, and his upbeat personality and can-do attitude will be missed every single day. In the course of a 27-year career with Niagara County, and more than 40 years in the economic development field, Sam amassed great knowledge through his experience, formed valuable relationships, and was a great leader. He had the respect of every individual and organization that conducted business with Niagara County. His presence was felt well beyond the Center for Economic Development, and I know his absence will be as well.
"In my time as a county legislator, and former chairman of the Economic Development Committee, I came to know Sam not just as a department head, but as a good friend, a confidante, and a valued adviser - and that's the reason I appointed him to serve as deputy county manager. His insights helped me succeed as a legislator, as a committee chairman, and as county manager. Niagara County lost a giant today, and I lost a friend."